Speaker names human trafficking committee

House Speaker Joe Straus, R-San Antonio, chose the veteran lawmaker to lead the House delegation for the joint interim committee.

Given the size and proximity to a major international border, Texas is often a focal point for human trafficking activity. The joint interim committee is charged with studying ways to combat this crime, identifying services available for victims of human trafficking in Texas, including best practices for public-private partnerships providing services to those affected by human trafficking. The committee will also offer recommendations for the 2013 session.

“I am proud to appoint these House members to an important committee tasked with giving voice to victims of human trafficking,” Straus said. “The Texas House will continue to work with law enforcement and human rights groups to end this tragedy.”